In the most recent episode of House of the Dragon, Rhaenyra Targaryen’s actions have sparked some confusion among fans regarding her sexual preferences. Historically, Rhaenyra’s romantic and sexual relationships in the series have been with men. However, in Season 2, Episode 6, there’s a surprising scene where she shares a kiss with Mysaria, a character who has been a confidante and ally.
This moment has left viewers puzzled because it deviates from the source material—George R.R. Martin’s Fire & Blood—where no such interaction between Rhaenyra and Mysaria is depicted. The showrunners’ decision to include this scene adds a layer of ambiguity to Rhaenyra’s character, potentially exploring aspects of her sexuality that were not covered in the book.
Fans are discussing whether this change signifies a new direction for Rhaenyra’s character or if it serves another narrative purpose within the show’s adaptation.
Is Rhaenyra written as bisexual in the book?
In the latest episode of House of the Dragon, the kiss between Rhaenyra and Mysaria has stirred up some confusion among fans, mainly because it diverges from George R.R. Martin’s Fire and Blood. In the books, Rhaenyra is depicted as straight, with no romantic involvement with women. Her relationships in the book are primarily with men, and her close female friendships, like those with Alicent and Laena, don’t cross into romantic territory.
The showrunners introduced the kiss in Season 2, Episode 6, as a new development not found in the original text. This creative choice may reflect Rhaenyra’s complex emotional state amidst her mounting struggles. With her father gone, her allies falling away, and her husband abandoning her, Rhaenyra is grappling with significant personal and political turmoil.
Mysaria, who has evolved from Daemon’s lover to a supportive confidante of Rhaenyra, offers her guidance and support in these challenging times. The kiss might symbolize Rhaenyra’s vulnerability and her search for solace amid the chaos. It could also suggest that the intense pressure and isolation have led her to explore new emotional connections.
Emma D’Arcy, who plays Rhaenyra, identifies as nonbinary, which might influence the portrayal of Rhaenyra’s relationships and desires. Additionally, the show has included subtle hints of queer subtext in the interactions between young Rhaenyra and Alicent, further adding depth to the character’s evolving romantic and emotional landscape.
Ultimately, the kiss between Rhaenyra and Mysaria could be a way for the show to introduce and explore queer relationships within the world of Westeros, providing a new layer to Rhaenyra’s character and her complex personal journey.
